How many time-outs are allowed in goalball?
I · Intermediate · Time-outs and results · 5 of 6Each team has four 45-second time-outs and four substitutions in a game; at least one of each must be used in the first half or it is lost, and one more of each is allowed in overtime. After either, the team must throw before asking again. Referees may call official time-outs or 45-second medical time-outs; medical substitutions do not count.
How it works
- Team time-outs: four, 45 seconds.
- Substitutions: four.
- First half: at least one of each, or lost.
- Overtime: one more of each.
- Request: by the team with the ball, or at a stoppage.
- Signals: by hand or voice.
- Medical time-out: 45 seconds.
- Blood: off until covered and changed.
The glossary has the team time-out (goalball), the substitution (goalball), the official's time-out, the medical time-out and blood rule, the hand signals (goalball) and the team and substitutes (goalball).
Tricky cases
A team uses no time-out in the first half. How many remain?
Three.
Can a substituted player lift the eyeshades at once?
Only after the referee announces the change.
Does a medical substitution count?
No.
Can coaches talk in an official's time-out?
Yes, until quiet please.
Why the rule exists
Limited breaks keep the game flowing. The first-half rule stops teams saving every break for the end.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Team time-outs | Four | 15 |
| Substitutions | Four | 19 |
| Medical | Not counted | 17, 20 |
From the rule book
IBSA, Goalball Rules and Regulations 2025 (effective 1 January 2025), rules 15 to 20. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: IBSA Goalball Rules and Regulations 2025.